Spondylosis is a common spine condition that affects millions of people worldwide, often leading to discomfort and a decreased quality of life. Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed with spondylosis or are experiencing unexplained back pain, understanding this condition can help you make informed decisions about your health. In this blog, we will delve into what spondylosis is, its symptoms, causes, and when to seek help from an orthopaedic specialist. We will also explore both surgical and nonsurgical treatment options available for managing this condition.
Spondylosis is a general term for the age-related degeneration of the spine’s discs, joints, and bones. This condition can affect any part of the spine, including the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), and lumbar (lower back) regions. Lumbar spondylosis refers explicitly to the degeneration in the lower back, a common area for age-related spinal changes due to the high stress and movement it endures.
The symptoms of spondylosis can vary widely depending on the location and severity of the degeneration. Common symptoms include
Persistent pain in the affected region can range from mild to severe.
Reduced flexibility and stiffness, particularly after periods of inactivity or sleep.
Loss of balance and coordination can happen in severe cases of spondylosis, especially cervical spondylosis, which affects the spinal cord.
Sensations of numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs when nerve roots are compressed.
Often associated with cervical spondylosis.
Spondylosis primarily results from the natural aging process. As we age, the spine undergoes several changes:
Other factors that can contribute to the development of spondylosis include:
It is essential to consult with an orthopaedic specialist if you experience:
At OIBO, we believe in the relentless pursuit of better orthopedic care, especially for spine, neck and back issues. Our team consists of multiple world-class, board-certified spine specialists who encounter these problems daily. This hyper-specialization means our patients receive the highest level of care, from treating back pain to managing scoliosis. You can trust our experienced and skilled doctors to provide the expert treatment you need to get back to being yourself.
Learn more about our spine specialists on our Spine, Back & Neck Speciality page.
Treatment for spondylosis aims to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Depending on the severity and specific needs of the patient, treatment options are categorized into nonsurgical and surgical methods.
Surgery is typically considered when nonsurgical treatments fail to provide relief or if there is significant nerve compression causing severe symptoms. Common surgical options include:
If you experience persistent back or neck pain, neurological symptoms, or a loss of function, it’s important to seek professional advice. Accurate diagnosis is key to distinguishing between these conditions and finding the most effective treatment.
While spondylosis is a common and often manageable spine condition, several other conditions can present similar symptoms and may be confused with it. Conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, facet joint syndrome, and osteoarthritis of the spine can all cause overlapping symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and nerve-related issues. Consulting an orthopaedic specialist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan is essential for optimal spine health and quality of life.
For more detailed information on spine conditions and treatment options, visit our specialty page or contact us to schedule an appointment with our experienced orthopaedic team.
Patients deserve personalized, outcome-driven care provided by physicians who genuinely care about them. As medicine has become more corporate and transactional, OrthoNJ prioritizes exceptional doctor/patient relationships. This is why we say we have The Power to Put Patients First.
Patients deserve personalized, outcome-driven care provided by physicians who genuinely care about them. As medicine has become more corporate and transactional, OrthoNJ prioritizes exceptional doctor/patient relationships. This is why we say we have The Power to Put Patients First.
Patients deserve personalized, outcome-driven care provided by physicians who genuinely care about them. As medicine has become more corporate and transactional, OrthoNJ prioritizes exceptional doctor/patient relationships. This is why we say we have The Power to Put Patients First.